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November 21, 2024 by admin

How to Remove Backgrounds from Videos Without a Green Screen

Video editing has come a long way in recent years, and one of the coolest features is the ability to remove backgrounds. Imagine being able to cut out the clutter behind you and place yourself anywhere—without even using a green screen. This is a game-changer for many content creators, social media influencers, and professionals who want to make their videos look more polished and professional.

Traditionally, people have used green screens to change video backgrounds. But due to advanced technology, we no longer need them. Now, a simple and good video editor for PC can easily remove the background from your videos with just a few clicks, using smart features that detect and isolate the subject.

In this guide, we’ll get to know how this works and why you must try it yourself.

Understanding Video Background Removal

Video background removal is the process of erasing or replacing the background behind a person or object in a video. This means you can make it look like you’re standing on a beach, in a busy city, or even in outer space without ever leaving your room.

This was once only possible with green screens, but now software can detect and remove the background using artificial intelligence (AI).

How Does It Work Without a Green Screen?

Green screens work by setting a single bright color (green) that can be easily removed by software, making it easy to add a new background. But if you don’t have a green screen, modern tools like background remover can use AI to analyze your video, determine the main subject, and separate it from everything else.

This is similar to how facial recognition works on your phone. The software identifies patterns, edges, and colors to isolate the main subject and erase the rest.

Tips for Better Background Removal Results

Removing backgrounds without a green screen is easier than ever, but there are still some tricks to get the best results. Here are a few tips:

  1. Choose a Plain Background for Filming

While AI tools can remove the background, it helps if the background is not too busy. If you film in front of a plain wall, the software will have an easier time figuring out what should stay and what should go.

  1. Ensure Good Lighting

Good lighting is a key part of any video shoot, but it’s especially important for background removal. Shadows can make it hard for the software to identify where the subject ends and the background begins. Try to film in a well-lit area, or use extra lights to make sure the subject is clearly visible.

  1. Avoid Wearing Colors Similar to the Background

If your shirt is the same color as the wall behind you, the software might get confused and erase parts of you along with the background. It’s best to wear clothing that contrasts with your surroundings to make it easier for the tool to do its job.

How to Remove Background Using the CapCut Desktop Video Editor

Here’s how the CapCut desktop video editor can help you in removing your video’s background without a green screen:

Step 1: Upload Video

To remove the video background without the green screen, download and install the CapCut desktop video editor on your PC. After launching it, click on the “Import” button and import your desired video for background removal.

Step 2: Remove Background

Once your video is loaded, go to the editing options and select the “Remove BG” feature > Auto Removal. The CapCut desktop video editor will use AI to automatically identify and separate the subject from the background.

Once the background is cleanly removed, you can replace it with a new one, such as a solid color, a classroom or anything you want. This way, your final video will look professional and polished, ready to make an impact.

Step 3: Save and Share

Once you’re happy with how the video looks, it’s time to save and export it. Choose the preferred resolution and format (e.g., MP4, MOV) and click “Export.”

The video will be saved to your device with the new background applied, ready for sharing on social media, presentations, or wherever you need it.

Practical Applications for Background Removal Without Green Screen

Removing backgrounds from videos is helpful in many situations, such as:

  1. For Social Media Content Creation

If you’re making videos for platforms like YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok, quick and easy background removal is perfect. It saves time, and you can add fun, creative backgrounds that match your content’s theme.

  1. For Educational Content

Whether you’ve recorded your lectures in a cluttered room with a messy background or a car while traveling, removing the background can make you look more professional. It also allows you to add branded or themed backgrounds. Moreover, here you can also add auto captions to your video to make it more engaging and accessible.

  1. For Creating Promotional Videos

If you’re making an ad or promotional video, background removal can help you place your product or message in a setting that grabs attention. It’s a great way to make your content stand out.

Conclusion

Technology has made it easier than ever to remove backgrounds from videos without needing a green screen. Whether you’re creating content for social media, making professional presentations, or just experimenting with video editing, there are plenty of tools, like the CapCut desktop video editor, that are available to help.

By following a few simple tips, you can get great results that make your videos look polished and impressive. So, why not give it a try.

Filed Under: Blog

November 18, 2024 by admin

Can Children With Speech Impairments Write English Well?

Children with speech and language disorders have problems reading and writing, even in their native tongue. For example, a child with speech impairments might struggle to pronounce basic English words clearly, affecting their ability to read and write fluently.

Did you know speech disorder diagnoses doubled during the COVID-19 pandemic? By the end of 2023, speech pathologists witnessed a massive increase in language and communication challenges among young children.

Thankfully, the right treatment and assistance can help these children overcome such challenges. For example, Winston Churchill overcame his language and speech impediment by practicing his diction and rehearsing tongue twisters.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss how a child with a speech impairment can write English well.

Understanding Speech and Language Disorders

Nahiyan Siyam used to have problems speaking clearly due to their speech impairment when they were young. In an interview, they mentioned how helpless and embarrassed they felt. A child with speech and language issues might be going through the same. 

But what exactly does this impairment entail? 

It’s a culmination of various conditions that affect a child’s ability to communicate. For example, children with English as their native tongue will have trouble speaking or writing vowels, alphabets, letters, etc. It can be categorized as:

  • Articulation disorders: Involves difficulty producing specific sounds.
  • Fluency disorders: This includes interruption in speech flow, such as stuttering.
  • Voice disorders: Affects pitch, quality, and volume.

All these affect a child’s communication and social development. Both parents and teachers must understand these signs for early identification and intervention. 

How Does Speech Disorder Affect English Writing Skills?

Children with speech impairments will have problems reading and writing, be it in English, Spanish, or any other language. In America, 1/12 children (three to seventeen) have been diagnosed with a disorder related to language, speech, or voice.

Let’s say your child has a stutter. It’ll definitely be hard for them to pronounce a combination of English consonants and vowels, leading to challenges in developing writing skills. 

Here are a few more issues children can face:

  • They’ll find it hard to construct sentences, leading to fragmented and incomplete writing.
  • They cannot articulate thoughts verbally, causing struggles in expressing and organizing ideas in written English.
  • The child will have issues with grammar and vocabulary, hindering their ability to convey meaningful written sentences.

That’s why targeted interventions focused on speech and writing can help the child express themselves clearly. They can even develop their literacy abilities once they overcome their communication challenges.

4 Ways You Can Help a Child Overcome Speech Problems

According to Ithaca College, normal language and speech ability are central factors to having a fulfilling human experience. If children cannot communicate properly and convey their needs, they’ll have issues expressing their personality and developing relationships.

Here are a few ways you can help your child overcome their speech problems and learn to speak English as their native tongue:

#1. Early Identification and Intervention

A child with speech impairments will show signs early on. Parents and teachers must recognize the delays in language and speech to offer timely support. 

If not addressed, the child might develop written language difficulties. You must engage caregivers, healthcare professionals, and educators in monitoring their developmental milestones. 

Addressing these challenges during a child’s developmental stage can:

  • Help your child improve communication skills.
  • Enhance their academic success and English writing proficiency.
  • Fostering social integration and confidence.

#2. Role of a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)

An SLP, or speech therapist, is a healthcare professional licensed to treat communication and swallowing disorders in children and adults. They educate families and caregivers about this disorder and how to improve the child’s quality of life.

As of 2022, America had over 178,000 people working as SLPs. Among them, 95.2% were women, and only 4.83% were men. However, don’t choose based on gender. Instead, find a therapist with a Master’s degree.

Someone with an offline or online Master’s in Speech Pathology degree will be proficient enough to help your child overcome speech problems. They’ll have three years of clinical experience through virtual or real-life simulations under their belt. It’s also quite hard to get into the program, as the course requires a 3.0 GPA with 25 observation hours and two letters of recommendation. 

All these prove the following about SLPs with a Master’s degree:

  • They can assess, diagnose, and treat your child’s language comprehension and speech fluency issues.
  • The SLP can develop a personalized treatment plan anywhere—in a school, hospital, or private practice.

#3. Parental Support and Involvement

Along with the SLP’s guidance, guardians and parents must also support the child to overcome speech impairments. You must:

  • Learn effective strategies to enhance their communication and writing skills at home.
  • Engage in daily English language-rich speech exercises to encourage open dialogue (both spoken and written).
  • Monitor the child’s development to inform the SLP about any concerns or issues with their communication skills.
  • Foster a supportive atmosphere to celebrate small achievements, motivating the child to improve their reading and writing skills.

All these will positively impact speech development. Researchers note that parents can create a rich linguistic atmosphere for the children to learn and practice English phrases and words.

#4. Continuous Support from Everyone

The SLP will also work with technology and resources to enhance the child’s experience with learning speech and language. They’ll use tools like interactive apps, online resources, and speech recognition software to foster communication skills through engagement. 

Schools can also create an inclusive learning environment to help them. For example, the classroom can have adaptive materials to accommodate diverse learning needs. Due to inclusivity, about 95% of children registered under the IDEA enrolled in regular schools.

Caregivers must also monitor their progress regularly to help educators and therapists assess the effectiveness of their techniques. They’ll also adjust the strategies based on the child’s evolving needs. All these will help the child learn to speak and read English in a supportive setting.

The Bottom Line

A child with speech impairments might have issues with writing English. They face this challenge because they struggle with phonological awareness and communication barriers.

That’s why caregivers must identify speech and language problems early on. Based on the signs, an SLP with a Master’s degree will help create tailored interventions and offer ongoing support. Educators can also create an inclusive environment by using technology, effective teaching strategies, and fostering parental involvement.

All these will ultimately help the child deal with their speech and language issues, leading them to develop strong writing skills.

Filed Under: Blog

November 18, 2024 by admin

Professional Development for ESL Teachers: 4 Ways to Boost Your Resume:

A foolproof way to advance your career? Investing in professional development. 

And as an English as a Second Language—ESL—teacher, you know that there’s always more to learn. Yet, professional development for ESL teachers is often overlooked. Regardless, it is important. It is one of the best ways to keep your skills fresh. 

Professional development can also make your resume stand out. With over 946,576 ESL teachers already there in the U.S. and more entering, it’s important to find ways to make yourself a more competitive candidate. That can really pay off. 

Here are a few ways you can boost your resume as an ESL teacher and grow as an educator. 

#1 Get TEFL or TESOL Certified 

Earning a TEFL or TESOL can make you stand out as an ESL teacher. 

TEFL – Teaching English as a Foreign Language – and TESOL – Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages – are often the minimum qualifications for many teaching jobs. If you haven’t secured one yet, it’s never too late.

A TEFL or TESOL certification shows employers that you’ve received solid training in the basics of teaching English, including lesson planning and language instruction techniques.

The two, though used interchangeably, are different from each other. According to Forbes, TEFL involves teaching English to non-native speakers in non-English-speaking countries. TESOL, on the other hand, refers to teaching English to non-native speakers in English-speaking countries. 

You can complete the course in person or online—the latter is the most common way, though.

A TEFL certification requires around 100 hours of coursework, while a TESOL involves about 120 hours of study. Some programs, however, may require more practicum hours. Those might be beneficial if you need teaching experience or more in-depth training. 

#2 Pursue an Ed.D. Program

Aiming to level up your career in ESL teaching? A Doctor of Education or Ed.D. could be the golden ticket. 

This degree is ideal if you’re interested in leadership roles, especially in ESL or bilingual education settings. Possible leadership roles, according to Marymount University, could include chief learning officer, policy maker, curriculum director, training and development manager, and school superintendent. 

Ed.D. programs often explore advanced topics like instructional design, educational policy, and methods for supporting diverse learners. 

With expertise in instructional design, you can develop lessons and curricula that address the unique needs of ESL students. Knowledge of educational policy will allow you to advocate for policies that support ESL programs, funding, and resources to improve the learning experience for ESL students.

These programs also focus on teaching methods and strategies that cater to diverse learners, so you will be able to create inclusive learning environments. 

Many universities offer part-time or online options. Opting for them will be the best bet since you can keep teaching while studying. An Ed.D. degree is a serious commitment. But it’s worth considering if you’re ready to make a big impact. 

#3 Take Part in ESL Conferences

To stay sharp as an ESL teacher, attend conferences. 

Many ESL organizations offer annual conferences with sessions on everything from innovative teaching methods to language acquisition research.

The TESOL International Association, for instance, is holding an International Convention & Expo in March 2025 at the Long Beach Convention Center, Long Beach, California. This convention—the largest in-person event in the English language teaching field—offers professional development opportunities to professionals worldwide who work in various contexts and at all levels. 

Attending this conference would be beneficial since it will allow you to dive deep into the field, explore new resources, and participate in hands-on workshops. All these can transform your approach to teaching.

Plus, adding conference attendance to your resume shows potential employers that you’re committed to professional growth and staying at the forefront of ESL education. 

#4 Become an IELTS Examiner

Have a TEFL or TESOL certification and three to five years of teaching experience? You’re qualified to be an IELTS examiner—why not become one?

Getting certified as an examiner for exams like the IELTS requires rigorous training. Adding it to your resume will demonstrate that you’re a committed, qualified professional.

As an IELTS examiner, you’ll be trained to assess candidates’ English proficiency in speaking and writing according to strict guidelines. 

You’ll also learn about the grading rubrics and develop skills that will help you guide students more effectively through test preparation. This certification can be a great asset, especially if you’re working with students aiming for university admission.

Adding professional development activities to your resume can show employers that you’re serious about your career as an ESL teacher. 

Whether you’re pursuing an Ed.D. or getting certified as an IELTS examiner, every skill you pick up will strengthen your resume and make you a better teacher. So go ahead—invest in yourself. 

Filed Under: Blog

November 13, 2024 by admin

Tips for Academic Writing: Navigating Research and Citations:

Writing a well-researched, fact-filled research paper depends on how well you research and accurately include citations, among other things. It follows a process that must be adhered to if you want to write a good, publishable paper other researchers can use.

This article is a guide to navigating research and citations when writing an academic paper. If it is too hard, you can always hire a ghost writer to help with it, but ensure you choose wisely. These effective student tips will help you know where to look to get credible, high-quality sources for your research paper.

  1. Choose Your Topic

First, you need to choose a topic that interests you, and that is within the parameters of your assignment. You can choose an academic writing topic by scanning through the course syllabus or teaching slides. Alternatively, you can speak to a professional ghostwriter bachelorarbeit or look through your textbook, magazines, journals, and other sources.

Create a list of potential topics and conduct some introductory research on the most interesting three. As you research the topics, see if there is enough information available for each; if there isn’t, you may need to expand your research. Research helps you know the right topic to choose, one that is not too broad or too narrow.

  1. Preliminary Research

Once you have decided on the topic, you want to do preliminary research on that particular topic. This preliminary research helps to set the context for your research and also determines if there is enough information. Also, identify the keywords in your topic and look them up in the resources such as dictionaries and encyclopedias. You can also look through your textbooks and lecture notes for additional background information on the topic.

  1. Get Materials

Now that you have a direction for your academic writing, it is time to get resources for your topic. You can get materials in different places, including using keyword searches. You can also look for books, whether on the shelf in a physical library or online in digital libraries.  As you get the books, ensure you print or write down the citation and location information for easy referencing later.

Source: Unsplash

  1. Locating Internet Resources

Search for keywords on search engines or check if your class has a research guide created by librarians. You have to know how to use these resources to get credible information out of them. Meta-search engines, for example, are not a recommended substitute for search engines. In certain instances where there are clear instructions, using them could be risky.

  1. Evaluating Your Findings

After getting the materials, you need to evaluate them to be sure they are reliable and credible. This step is particularly vital if you are planning on using internet resources, which you most likely will. Aspects of the paper that need critical analysis include:

  • The author: Check their credentials, educational background, and previous writings. Check their experience to know if the paper is the writer’s area of expertise. 
  • Publication date: Check the date the source was published; is it current or out-of-date for your topic? 
  • Edition: Note the edition of the publication and if it has been revised and changes have been affected to reflect the update in knowledge.
  • Publisher: Note the publication publisher; if a university press publishes it, it is likely a scholarly paper.

Now that you’ve completed the initial appraisal, you need to analyze the content. When doing so, pay attention to the intended audience. Note the source’s objective reasoning: does it cover facts, propaganda, or opinion? Is it well-researched and valid?

Also, check the academic writing style to be sure it suits your requirements. Is the publication logically organized? Are the points clearly presented?

  1. Citing Your Sources

Last but not least, give credit to whom it is due by citing the sources you used in your paper. Apart from crediting the rightful owner of the paper in academic writing, citing your sources also allows others to duplicate your research. With your citations, they will be able to locate the referenced sources – and it helps you avoid plagiarism. 

There are different ways to cite your sources, including MLA and APA, each with its principles and guidelines. You can reach out to professional ghostwriting services for help with the proper citation of your paper.

Conclusion

These tips for academic writing will help you write a well-informed, professionally-written research paper devoid of plagiarism. Each step requires careful attention to detail to avoid making mistakes that can cost you a good grade.

Filed Under: Blog

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